How to Change Max Players on Your Left 4 Dead 2 Server
Set the player limit on your Left 4 Dead 2 dedicated server, including how SourceMod plugins enable higher counts.
L4D2's vanilla limits are tied to game mode:
| Mode | Default Players | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Co-op | 4 | 4 survivors |
| Versus | 8 | 4 survivors + 4 special infected |
| Survival | 4 | Defense mode |
| Realism | 4 | Hardcore co-op |
| Scavenge | 8 | Versus mode variant |
Open Startup
In the XGamingServer Panel, click Startup in the sidebar.
Set Max Players
Find the Max Players field and enter your desired count.
Restart
Restart from Console to apply.
Add to the startup command line:
-maxplayers 8Restart the server to apply.
Higher Player Counts via SourceMod
L4D2's hard-coded limits can be raised with SourceMod plugins for custom game modes:
- left4downtown2 — extends the player limit to support 8+ players in co-op
- L4DToolZ — server tools including player slot extension
Install via SourceMod and place plugins in addons/sourcemod/plugins/. Plugins like these are commonly used for 8-player co-op servers.
Related Guides
How is this guide?
40% Off — Limited TimeGet your Left 4 Dead 2 server todayInstant setup, DDoS protection, and 24/7 support included.
Get a Server